Tk 7.26 crore toll collected at Padma Bridge in 36 hours

A total of 65,324 vehicles crossed the Padma Bridge in the last 36 hours during the Eid-ul-Azha holidays, generating Tk 7.25 crore in toll revenue, according to Bangladesh Bridge Authority officials.

Executive Engineer of Padma Bridge Site Office Abu Saad confirmed that vehicles crossed from the Mawa end in Munshiganj and the Jazira end in Shariatpur until 12:00 pm on Tuesday, May 26.

In the first 24 hours, 44,008 vehicles crossed the bridge, generating Tk 4.80 crore in tolls. In the subsequent 12 hours, another 21,324 vehicles crossed, adding Tk 2.45 crore. The total toll collected in 36 hours stood at Tk 7.25 crore.

To ensure a smooth Eid journey, the bridge authority has increased the capacity of the Mawa toll plaza as part of a 45-day special programme. Currently, ten vehicles are crossing the bridge every three seconds after paying tolls. Ten lanes are operational for toll collection, including three temporary separate lanes for motorcycles.

A special 'bus bay' has been constructed in front of the Padma Bridge North Police Station to ease congestion, allowing 10-15 buses to stop simultaneously, preventing chaos and long queues at the toll plaza entrance.

Munshiganj Superintendent of Police Md Minhajul Alam said regular patrols and traffic management on the expressway have kept the situation normal.

Munshiganj Deputy Commissioner Syeda Noor Mahal Ashrafi said while vehicle pressure is higher than usual due to Eid travel, vehicles are crossing the bridge quickly. Travellers from 21 southern districts are reaching their destinations without hardship.